Here comes the sun

Roanoke Valley Wine Co., a statewide distributor of wine and beer, is installing solar panels at its Salem distribution center in the largest private solar installation in Southwest Virginia and one of the largest in Virginia.

The company said in a press release that Astrum Solar is installing the 100 kW photovoltaic energy system of 420 solar panels that will cover more than a third of the facility’s roof.

Andrew Tavers, the company’s general manager, told Virginia Business that the panels are expected to reduce energy costs by 70 percent. The distribution center is climate controlled year-round to house wine and beer that is distributed to ABC-licensed restaurants and specialty shop customers throughout Virginia, West Virginia and Washington, DC.

Keeping wine and beer in a climate controlled environment is a significant operational expense, and Tavers said turning to solar power will help the company manage these long term expenses. “Adding solar panels and taking advantage of this green energy source, makes good sense financially, and, frankly, we believe it’s the right thing to do for our environment,” Beth Crittenden, who co-owns
Roanoke Valley Wine Co. with her husband, Rob Crittenden, said in a statement.